10 Best Budget Treadmills – Reviews & Buying Guide

Treadmill plays an integral part in your fitness routine without any doubt. Having one at home or in your office can be a real good deal if you want to remain ahead in your fitness game. However, finding the best budget treadmill in 2021 may be a real hassle.

But worry not, you do not need to go through all the hassle. This article contains the answer to all your doubts and queries. We have discussed each aspect of finding yourself the best budget treadmill 2021 in extensive detail.

We will share the features and benefits of ten of the best affordable treadmills you can buy right now for your convenience. You can choose one out of our list that suits your interest the best.

Best Budget Treadmill 2021 Comparison Table

IMAGE PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
Best-budget-treadmill-NordicTrack-T6.5S
    • Dimensions: 73 x 35.8 x 67.5 inches
    • Motor: 2.6 CHP
    • Speed: Up to 10 MPH
    • Capacity: 300 pounds
    • Extras: iFit Enabled
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best-budget-treadmill-2021-Horizon-Fitness-T202-Advanced
    • Dimensions: 75 x 34 x 58 inches
    • Motor: 2.75 CHP
    • Speed: Up to 12 MPH
    • Capacity: 325 pounds
    • Extras: One-touch keys, rotating dial, and handlebar controls
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best-budget-treadmill-Nautilus-Treadmill-T616
    • Dimensions: 57.6 x 35.2 x 72.2 inches
    • Motor: 3.0 CHP
    • Speed: Up to 12 MPH
    • Capacity: 300 pounds
    • Extras: Bluetooth Connection
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best-cheap-treadmill-2021-Horizon-Fitness-T101
    • Dimensions: 70 x 34 x 55 inches
    • Motor: 2.6 CHP
    • Speed: Up to 10 MPH
    • Capacity: 300 pounds
    • Extras: Three LED Windows
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best-affordable-treadmill-2021-Exerpeutic-TF1000
    • Dimensions: 63 x 32 x 51.2 inches
    • Motor: 1.5 HP
    • Speed: 0.4 to 4 MPH
    • Capacity: 400 pounds
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best-inexpensive-treadmill-Goplus-2.25HP-Electric-Folding-Treadmill
    • Running Path: 61 x 28 x 52 inches
    • Motor: 2.25 HP
    • Speed: 0.5 to 7.5 MPH
    • Capacity: 250 pounds
    • Extras: Four silicon pads
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best-cheap-treadmill-Sunny-Health-Fitness-ASUNA
    • Dimensions: 59 x 30.5 x 40 inches
    • Motor: 2.5 HP
    • Speed: 0.6 to 8 MPH
    • Capacity: 220 pounds
    • Extras: Four window displays
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best-affordable-treadmill-XTERRA-Fitness-TR150
    • Dimensions: 63.4 x 28.75 x 51.4 inches
    • Motor: 2.25 HP
    • Speed: 0.5 to 10 MPH
    • Capacity: 250 pounds
    • Extras: Accessory holders
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best-inexpensive-treadmill-2021-Sunny-Health-SF-T4400
    • Dimensions: 62 x 25.5 x 50 inches
    • Motor: 2.20 HP
    • Speed: 0.5 to 9 MPH
    • Capacity: 220 pounds
    • Extras: Handrail controls
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best-budget-treadmill-2021-MaxKare-Folding-Treadmill
    • Dimensions: 32.7 x 25.6 x 51.2 inches
    • Motor: 2 HP
    • Speed: 0.5 to 8.5 MPH
    • Capacity: 220 pounds
    • Extras: 15 preset programs
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Best Budget Treadmill 2021 Reviews

  1. NordicTrack T6.5S Treadmill – Best Overall
  2. Horizon Fitness T202 Advanced – Best for Tall People
  3. Nautilus T616 Treadmill – Best for Running
  4. Horizon Fitness T101 – Best for Light Workout
  5. Exerpeutic TF1000 Ultra High Capacity – Best for Overweight People
  6. Goplus 2.25HP Electric Folding Treadmill – Best Heavy-Duty
  7. Sunny Health & Fitness ASUNA Treadmill – Best Affordable
  8. XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill – Best Folding
  9. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill – Best Space-Saving
  10. MaxKare Electric Folding Treadmill – Best Noiseless

In this article, you will find a detailed review of the ten cheap but best in quality, packed with robust features, treadmills available in the market.

We will also discuss some pros and cons associated with each product in our list.

To make it as easy as possible for you to buy the best product for yourself, we also have added a buying guide and some FAQs too in this article.

So, without further due, let us hop into it.

1. NordicTrack T6.5S Treadmill – Best Overall

Features:

  • Dimensions of 73 x 35.8 x 67.5 inches
  • iFit enabled
  • 10% incline control (One-touch)
  • 10 MPH speed limit
  • Smart response motor of 2.6 CHP
  • Space saver design
  • 300 Pounds user weight Capacity

NordicTrack needs no introduction in the world of treadmill manufacturers. Fitness freaks who love to have an immersive and interactive fitness session have to look no further than NordicTrack Treadmill.

But! Yes, there is a but! NordicTrack treadmills are expensive due to their exquisite features. You may wonder what a NordicTrack’s treadmill is doing here.

Well, let us clear your confusion. NordicTrack T6.5S is an entry-level treadmill packed with all the best features you can require. It is the best budget-friendly treadmill available in the market.

As it is iFit enabled, it provides the most interactive workout experience you can ever have with a live fitness trainer and numerous locations for you to choose from.

It features a 2.6 CHP motor, best suitable if you are more of a walker than a runner. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t run on that. It just means that you might want to avoid heavy training sessions.

PROS

  • Live trainer with iFit app
  • Easy folding and unfolding
  • Easy to lift design
  • Equipped with many incredible features for a limited budget treadmill

CONS

  • Warranty is just average

Bottom Line

NordicTrack T6.5S is undoubtedly the best budget treadmill in 2021 one can buy. It is equipped with such features you usually get on an expensive treadmill. That’s why it is a no brainer!


2. Horizon Fitness T202 Advanced – Best for Tall People

Features:

  • Dimensions of 75 x 34 x 58 inches
  • Free app for controlling your workout
  • One-touch keys, rotating dial, and handlebar controls
  • The powerful motor of 2.75 CHP
  • Speed: Up to 12 MPH
  • 0 – 12% incline range
  • Three-zone cushioned deck
  • Maximum user weight of 325 pounds

Are you not buying a treadmill because you are a tall person and think treadmills for tall people will not be cheap? You are wrong!

Here we have in our list of the best budget treadmills, Horizon Fitness T202, best cheap treadmill for tall persons.

It features a 20 x 60 inches track area for running, very difficult to find in any other treadmill within this price range.

It combines excellency with great affordability. You have a 2.75 CHP, which can support up to 12 percent incline. It comes with twelve built-in training programs for you to take your fitness game to the next level.

And why shouldn’t we talk about the warranty on this thing? It literally steals the show.

Even though it is an inexpensive treadmill, it still gives a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame.

In addition to that, it enables you to listen to your favorite podcasts and music via the Bluetooth connection. So, all in all, it is definitely a bang for your buck.

PROS

  • Big track size
  • Easy storage due to convenient folding design
  • Impressive Warranty

CONS

  • Super heavy

Bottom Line

Horizon Fitness T202 is the best inexpensive treadmill in 2021 for people taller than six feet. With its big track size and other features, it can be quite a good buy for you.


3. Nautilus T616 Treadmill – Best for Running

Features:

  • Dimensions of 57.6 x 35.2 x 72.2 inches
  • The powerful motor of 3.0 CHP
  • Speed: Up to 12 MPH
  • Supports Bluetooth connection
  • Compatible with Nautilus Trainer 2 App and other fitness apps
  • Up to 15% incline range
  • StrikeZone Cushioning System
  • Maximum user capacity of 300 Pounds

Nautilus is known for producing impeccable home treadmills for quite a while now. Nautilus’ treadmills are so well-built that they give a gym-like feel at home to you.

Among the products they offer, Nautilus Treadmill T616 is one of the best affordable treadmills for home. 

It offers a very good running area of 20 x 60 inches. It features a powerful 3.0 CHP motor best for runners. This much CHP enables it to achieve 12 mph speed with a maximum incline of 15 percent.

And you know the most intriguing thing? This treadmill features 2.5 inches crown rollers, a rare feature a treadmill can have in this price range.

Moreover, this treadmill is equipped with 26 workout programs for interactive cardio sessions. It also features a heart strap for live heart monitoring.

Yes, the warranty on this thing is not so good. However, its built is sturdy and durable. If this does not bother you, it might be the best budget treadmill for running you can buy in 2021.

PROS

  • Gym quality machine
  • Smooth running
  • Easy to fold and move
  • Dual screens

CONS

  • Expensive paperweight

Bottom Line

Nautilus Treadmill T616 is undoubtedly the best treadmill for runners on a budget. It has decent features and a sturdy frame, perfect for daily workout sessions at home.


4. Horizon Fitness T101 – Best for Light Workout

Features:

  • Dimensions of 70 x 34 x 55 inches
  • The incline of 0-10 percent
  • Top speed of 10 MPH
  • The powerful motor of 2.6 CHP
  • Three LED Windows
  • User capacity of 300 pounds

Here is another, one of the best budget treadmills from Horizon named as T101.

Now, the most delicate thing about this treadmill is it’s being cheap yet robust. With it, you can have as much fun workout at home as you had in the gym.

If you prefer light workouts such as gentle jogging, this treadmill will be most suitable for you. It is the best affordable treadmill currently present in the market; you can buy it for your home.

This treadmill features a 2.5 CHP motor, best for walkers and light joggers. Its track size is 20 x 55 inches.

Some other features include an inclination of 10 percent. Even though it is not recommended to run on this treadmill, you can still have a tough workout using inclination.

Moreover, it has nine onboard training programs for interactive cardio sessions. Its 3-zone variable cushioning reduces the impact on your joint considerably while you walk or jog.

So overall, it will not be wrong to consider it one of the best cheap treadmill 2021 you can consider buying.

PROS

  • Super affordable
  • Best Warranty
  • Comfortable to run on

CONS

  • Not for heavy workout sessions
  • Short track

Bottom Line

Horizon Fitness T101, just like its sister model T202, is one of the best cheap treadmills available in the market for 2021. It is best for you if you prefer gentle jogging or just walking. Intense workouts are, of course, not recommended.


5. Exerpeutic TF1000 Ultra High Capacity Treadmill – Best for Overweight People

Features:

  • Dimensions of 63 x 32 x 51.2 inches
  • Electric treadmill with 1.5 HP motor
  • Speed: 0.4 to 4 MPH
  • Twenty inches wide tread belt
  • Eighteen inches safety handles
  • LCD display
  • Maximum user capacity of 400 pounds

Overweight people require more robust fitness equipment than normal people, which can bear with their weight and don’t wear out.

If you are one of them and trying to get healthier, look no further, and buy an Exerpeutic TF1000 Treadmill.

It is an inexpensive treadmill, specially designed for heavy-weight people. It has a whopping user capacity of 400 pounds! So, no matter how overweight you are, this treadmill is here to bear you.

It features a great electric motor of 1.5 HP with a high-torque. Yes, it is not suitable for running, but it is perfect for a light walk and gentle jog.

To make your workout more challenging, you can use inclination. This treadmill features two levels of manual inclination.

The feature which makes it a top affordable treadmill is its portability and convenient folding and space-saving design. It has built-in tires for easy transportation.

PROS

  • 400 Pounds of user capacity
  • Easy transportation and storage
  • Perfect for walkers

CONS

  • Not suitable for runners

Bottom Line

Exerpeutic TF1000 is the best treadmill in a limited budget for overweight people. If you are one of them, you are in for a treat. Buy it at once!


6. Goplus 2.25HP Electric Folding Treadmill – Best Heavy-Duty

Features:

  • Dimensions of 61 x 28 x 52 inches
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Impulse motor of 2.25 HP
  • Speed: 0.5 to 7.5 MPH
  • Blu-ray LCD display
  • Foldable design
  • Four silicon pads
  • Maximum user capacity of 250 pounds

Goplus 2.25 HP Electric Folding Treadmill is best suitable for you if you have been looking for a top affordable folding treadmill for your home or office use.

As its name suggests, it has a 2.25 HP motor perfect for your light to moderate workout sessions.

Its runner belt is made up of rubber material with an area of 17 x 47 inches. It also features a five inches LCD display, which shows the important statistics of your workout such as distance traveled and calories burnt.

If you don’t want to wake up your family while you work out in the morning, Goplus 2.25 HP Electric Folding Treadmill is the best way to go. It has four silicon pads, two at both sides, for maximum noise cancellation.

Goplus 2.25 HP is a sturdy treadmill that will last you for a long time. It has 250 pounds user capacity, definitely not suitable for overweight people. With its convenient folding design, this treadmill can be the best bargain for you.

PROS

  • Premium build quality
  • The console is convenient to read
  • Quite and silent
  • Easy to fold and unfold

CONS

  • The warranty is not so good

Bottom Line

Goplus 2.25 HP Folding Treadmill is the best inexpensive electric treadmill available in the market. Its premium build quality makes it a top affordable treadmill for 2021 you can buy.


7. Sunny Health & Fitness ASUNA Treadmill – Best Affordable

Features:

  • Dimensions of 59 x 30.5 x 40 inches
  • The powerful motor of peak 2.5 HP
  • Speed: 0.6 to 8 MPH
  • Four window displays
  • Folding design
  • Shock absorber running deck
  • User capacity of 220 pounds

There are many cheap options available in the market, but not a single one is as great as Sunny Health & Fitness ASUNA Treadmill.

For just under 400 dollars, you can get a robust and durable treadmill for our home gym. It is undoubtedly the best cheap treadmill in 2021, available in the market.

Why do we say that? Let’s see.

This treadmill comes with a powerful motor of 2.5 peak HP. Its speed ranges up to 10 mph, perfect for runners.

To ensure the most interactive workout at such a low price, this treadmill is equipped with nine built-in workout programs. This makes workout sessions more fun.

It also has an LCD for showing important statistics such as distance traveled etc. Within this price range, it is really a mind blower!

Some might have a problem with its manual inclination options, but hey, you are getting such a robust treadmill at this low price.

PROS

  • Rugged
  • Can handle challenging training sessions
  • Easy to fold and unfold

CONS

  • Manual inclination can put one off

Bottom Line

Sunny Health and Fitness ASUNA Treadmill is the best cheap treadmill available. It is sturdy, equipped with good features. Hence, not a bad buy!


8. XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill – Best Folding

Features:

  • Dimensions of 63.4 x 28.75 x 51.4 inches
  • The motor of 2.25 HP
  • Speed: 0.5 to 10 MPH
  • Five-inch LCD display
  • Twelve preset programs
  • Three manual incline levels
  • Folding design
  • Maximum user capacity of 250 pounds

Xterra Fitness TR150 is the best cheap treadmill with features enough for covering your basic needs. For a home environment, it is undoubtedly a bang for your buck.

Its ultra-space saving design distinguishes it from other treadmills within this price range. It has a very convenient folding design. While folded, its dimensions are just 29D x 28.75W.

It features a 2.25 HP motor which can support a speed range of 0.5 to 10 MPH. In addition to that, you will get three manual incline levels on this treadmill.

It is a top affordable treadmill that can endure a prolonged session of walking, jogging, or even running. An intense workout might not be suitable as it is an entry-level treadmill.

One thing that can put you off is, it does not support Bluetooth connectivity and it is also not compatible with any fitness app. However, it does come with an LCD display for tracking and displaying your workout progress.

Related: 10 Best Folding Treadmills of 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

PROS

  • Sturdy construction
  • Extra soft cushioning
  • Convenient to assemble

CONS

  • No backlight on the console

Bottom Line

XTERRA Fitness TR150 is the best inexpensive treadmill in folding design. It is sturdy, well-built, and equipped with good features. A good option to consider.


9. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill – Best Space Saving

Features:

  • Dimensions of 62 x 25.5 x 50 inches
  • The motor of 2.20 HP
  • Speed: 0.5 to 9 MPH
  • Three manual incline options
  • Easy folding mechanism
  • Handrail controls
  • Nine built-in workout programs
  • Maximum use capacity of 220 pounds

This treadmill is a treat for indoor walkers and joggers. Runners can also use this treadmill, but intense workout sessions might not be a good idea as it is not designed for that.

If you are a small apartment dweller and don’t have enough space you can dedicate to a treadmill, Sunny Health SF-T4400 might be the best bargain for you.

It is the best affordable treadmill for you with an impeccable space-saving design. Its tread belt’s dimensions are 48.82 x 15.75 inches. Yes, the tread belt is small, but this very thing enhances this treadmill’s mobility and portability.

With this treadmill, you also won’t have to worry about extra noise that can disturb your neighbors or family members. It has a shock-absorbing deck, which minimizes noise to a large extent.

Other features include an LCD display that will track your workout session’s statistics. You also get nine workout programs you can choose from.

PROS

  • Easy to assemble
  • Lightweight
  • Handrail control keys

CONS

  • Needs regular maintenance

Bottom Line

Sunny Health SF-T4400 is the best space-saving treadmill on a limited budget. If you are a walker or a gentle jogger, go with this treadmill.


10.  MaxKare Electric Folding Treadmill – Best Noiseless

Features:

  • Dimensions of 32.7 x 25.6 x 51.2 inches
  • The motor of 2.0 HP
  • Speed: 0.5 to 8.5 MPH
  • Large LCD display
  • Fifteen pre-set programs
  • Multi-layer treadmill
  • Foldable design
  • Maximum user capacity of 220 Pounds

MaxKare Folding Treadmill is one of the best inexpensive treadmills you can buy in 2021. It can be a robust addition to your home gym.

Why is that? Let’s see.

This treadmill features a rubber tread belt for comfortable running. It also prevents knee injuries while working out.

It is manufactured with the highest quality material and has a very stable design. If you don’t want any noise while you work out, this treadmill is as noiseless as it gets.

It features a high-torque 2.5 HP powerful motor, which provides a smooth running experience. You get a speed range of 0.5 to 8.5 MPH.

It also features a soft drop system for easy folding and unfolding. It has a white light LED that displays critical statistics of your workout. With its three-level manual incline options, MaxKare Folding Treadmill might be the best option for you.

PROS

  • Easy one-touch operation
  • Quiet noiseless
  • Easy to put together

CONS

  • Handrails are relatively low for a tall person

Bottom Line

MaxKare Folding Treadmill is one of the best cheap electric treadmills available in the market. You can get a robust treadmill that will go perfectly with your home for a minimal budget.


Buying Guide

If you are buying something, it is better that you have all the essential information about that thing. So, in this buying guide, we will share with you all the information you need to select the best budget treadmill 2021 for yourself.

It is important because you don’t want your money to go down the drain by buying something you don’t want to have. And with the budget on the line, you have to be extra careful.

We understand that the market is literally over flooded with treadmills. Different brands are offering products claiming them to be the best. It really becomes a pain in the neck to buy the exact thing of your interests. So, here we have a buyer’s guide to help you make a better decision while buying a treadmill within your budget.

If that sounds interesting, let us hop into it.

1. Budget

The first thing that possesses the utmost importance is your budget. If you are reading this article, it means you already have a limited budget.

So, it would be best if you analyze your options in a detailed manner and select something that does not put a dent in your wallet and still provides you with all the basic and important features you need.

Keep in mind, the less you pay, the fewer features you will get. However, if you analyze your options in-depth, you would definitely be able to get the best deal out of your limited budget.

2. Try it out

This is more advice. Whenever you decide to buy something, it would be best if you try it out once. If you feel that your chosen product fulfills your requirements, you can buy it.

In the case of the treadmills, you can go to several sporting stores or some department stores, e.g., Sears, and try the treadmill out you want to buy. This would greatly prevent future inconveniences.

3. Minimum Specifications

Like every other product, treadmills also have some specifications you should consider before buying one. And when the question is about buying the best cheap treadmill in 2021, you should pay more attention to them.

Let us have a look at them:

  • Dimensions

This specification relates to the space you have dedicated to your treadmill. Different brands’ treadmills offer several models with different dimensions. Some are bigger, and some are smaller.

So how would you know which dimensions are best for you?

Well, it is simple. You need to check whether you have enough space in your home, which can easily be dedicated full-time to a treadmill. If yes, you can go with large dimensions.

But, if you don’t have enough space, we would recommend you to buy one with smaller dimensions. Either you can buy one with smaller dimensions, or you can consider buying one with a folding design.

There are some very good inexpensive folding treadmills available in the market we have discussed in our review of the top ten best budget treadmills you can buy in 2021.

  • Motor

While looking for the best affordable treadmills to buy, you will notice that very few treadmills offer motors with high power. Mostly, you will get motors with power in a moderate range.

However, this doesn’t mean you can not have a nice workout with them. Yes, an intense workout may not be suitable, but normal running sessions are not a problem at all.

So, treadmills with power ranging from 2.0 CHP to 3.0 CHP are more than enough for you on a limited budget.

Just don’t forget to check the warranty on the motor. Usually, a lifetime warranty is offered by brands, which is very good and also necessary.

  • Track Size

If your preference is walking or light jogging, track size is not an issue of concern for you.

However, if you are planning on running, you might want to buy a treadmill with maximum track size. If you are a taller person, it is again essential for you to buy one with a bigger track size.

The recommended length for you, if you are a walker, is 55 inches and if you are a runner, look for a treadmill with a track size of 60 inches.

  • Weight Capacity

It is another feature that plays a significant role in choosing the best treadmill for yourself.

If you are an overweight person, a regular treadmill will not be suitable for you. Luckily, even on a limited budget, you can get a treadmill designed especially for overweight people.

Look for a treadmill that offers at least 200 pounds user capacity if you are a person with weight in the normal range. If you are overweight, anything more than 300 pounds of user capacity will be best for you.

  • Track Cushioning

Cushioning is a very important aspect of the treadmill which needs to be considered before buying one.

A good cushioning will prevent you from knee and joint injuries and promote your stamina. As compared to road, there is a very low impact on joints when you run on a treadmill with enhanced cushioning.

FAQs

What is the best inexpensive treadmill?

NordicTrack T6.5S is the best inexpensive treadmill available in the market you can buy. It is well-built and well-equipped with features, very few treadmills have to offer on a limited budget.

What is the best treadmill under $600?

You can buy the MaxKare Folding Treadmill on a budget of under $600. Even though it is cheap, it still offers splendid features with a high end built quality. Definitely, something to consider.

Are Cheap Treadmills Worth it?

Absolutely. Don’t get discouraged if you have a limited budget. There are plenty of the best budget treadmills you can buy right now.
For instance, check out the review of NordicTrack T6.5S! That treadmill is a no-brainer under a limited budget.

Conclusion

Treadmills are not just for wealthy people. The market is filled with the best budget treadmills for 2021 you can buy in just a touch. Even with limited money at hand, you can enjoy fun workout sessions at the ease of your home.

As far as our recommendations are concerned, we consider NordicTrack T6.5S the best bang for your bucks. If you want a very cheap and best treadmill, you can go with Sunny Health and Fitness ASUNA Treadmill.

Yes, you will get limited features in limited budget treadmills, but still, is getting a treadmill at such cheap prices not already enough? Think about that!

Lastly, we hope this review proved to be beneficial for you. Still, if you have any suggestions for us, feel free to leave them in the comments down below. We would love to hear from you!

Related Article:

12 Best Treadmills 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

10 Best Treadmills Under $1,000 in 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

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